At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead supportive sessions for families affected by imprisonment at HMP Dumfries.
- Company: Join Early Years Scotland, dedicated to transforming family experiences in challenging situations.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, a pension contribution, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in families' lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Passionate individuals with confidence and a desire to support others are encouraged to apply.
- Other info: This role is funded until March 2026, with ongoing support from the EYS Service Manager.
The predicted salary is between 12842 - 12842 £ per year.
Join Early Years Scotland (EYS) new Family Support Service (FSS) at HMP Dumfries!
Are you a passionate, confident, and supportive individual looking to make a real difference? We are seeking a Family Support Worker to lead sessions at our new EYS FSS at HMP Dumfries.
Why This Role Matters: Families affected by imprisonment face numerous emotional, financial, and practical challenges. They often struggle to find the support and information they need. Our EYS FSS is dedicated to transforming the visit experience for children, families, and friends by creating a welcoming and positive environment. We aim to reduce stress, build confidence, and provide comprehensive support to those whose lives are impacted by imprisonment.
Your Impact: As a Family Support Worker, you will play a crucial role in achieving positive outcomes for families and children.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Enhancing the visiting experience: Make visits to loved ones in prison more positive and less stressful.
- Providing essential support: Offer independent and impartial advice, information, and support tailored to families’ needs.
- Advocating for families: Champion the needs of families within the prison system.
What You’ll Do:
- Connect positively with visitors, offering one-to-one support and valuable information.
- Collaborate with community-based services to develop and enhance the service.
- Work closely with Scottish Prison Service (SPS) staff to ensure a supportive and positive environment.
- Receive ongoing support from the EYS Service Manager.
Why Apply? This is your chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of families affected by imprisonment. If you are motivated, confident, and ready to support others, we want to hear from you!
Post Details:
- 17.5 hours per week over 52 weeks per annum
- Thursday – 1.30pm – 4.30pm
- Friday – 1.30pm – 4.30pm
- Saturday – 9 – 1pm
- Sunday – 9 – 1pm
- Admin work – 3 ½ hrs working from home
Salary: £12,842 pro-rata per annum (£25,685 FTE); £14.11 per hour (Point 24 on scale 24-26)
Benefits:
- 25 days Annual Leave in the first year rising to 30 days thereafter
- 12 public holidays per annum
- PVG Scheme membership will be required
- There are a range of staff benefits including 5% pension contribution, access to Employee Assistance Programme, professional learning opportunities, family friendly and wellbeing policies and others.
This post is funded by the Scottish Government until 31 March 2026 (subject to continued funding).
Full post details and application form are available on the Early Years Scotland website: https://earlyyearsscotland.org/jobs/.
If you would like to phone for an informal chat about the post in advance of applying, please let us know by emailing tracey.thompson@earlyyearsscotland.org and we will be happy to arrange a time.
Closing date for applications: 9.00am on Friday 4th July 2025. Please forward a completed EYS application form, to: recruitment@earlyyearsscotland.org.
Early Years Scotland is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Family Support Worker employer: Dgwgo
Contact Detail:
Dgwgo Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Family Support Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the challenges faced by families affected by imprisonment. Understanding their emotional and practical needs will help you connect better during interviews and demonstrate your genuine passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of family support or prison services. Engaging with others who work in similar roles can provide valuable insights and may even lead to recommendations that could strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported individuals or families in challenging situations. This will showcase your skills and ability to advocate effectively for those in need.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Early Years Scotland and their Family Support Service thoroughly. Being knowledgeable about their mission and values will allow you to align your answers with their goals, making you a more appealing candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Family Support Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and expectations of a Family Support Worker. Highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experience in family support, advocacy, or working with vulnerable populations. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to enhance visiting experiences and provide essential support.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for supporting families affected by imprisonment. Explain why you are motivated to apply for this position and how you can contribute to creating a positive environment at HMP Dumfries.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dgwgo
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Family Support Worker. Familiarise yourself with the challenges families face due to imprisonment and think about how you can positively impact their experience.
✨Show Empathy and Compassion
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to connect with people on an emotional level. Share examples from your past experiences where you've supported individuals or families in difficult situations, highlighting your empathetic approach.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a list of thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewers. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how the Family Support Service operates within HMP Dumfries.
✨Highlight Collaboration Skills
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including community services and prison staff. Provide examples of how you've successfully worked in teams to achieve positive outcomes in previous roles.